Rogue traders target Shirebrook OAPs

CRIME: Crime scene.

Kevin Rogers

Police are warning residents to beware of doorstep traders following incidents in Shirebrook.

Two elderly residents were approached by a woman who convinced them to buy bedding from her for what were described as a vastly overpriced amount of cash.

The woman was reported to have been calling at homes, on Brookfield Crescent and Linden Street, during the afternoon on Wednesday, 29th January.

Community Safety Inspector Russell Dakin, said: “These incidents serve as a reminder to residents across our area of the risks of buying items from people you don’t know, who turn up unannounced.

“We would like to take this opportunity to urge the community to contact police immediately if they are suspicious of people calling at their house, as we would much rather receive calls of suspicious incidents that turn out to be genuine rather than someone becoming the victim of a bogus caller.”

The woman was described as white, in her 30s, of a plump or large build with dark shoulder length hair. She was wearing a hat, dark coat, dark jeans and carrying suitcases.

Anyone with information about this incident, or to report suspicious activity, should contact Derbyshire police on 101.

Advice to residents around doorstep callers includes: If you are not sure who is at the door, don’t open it.

Check the identity of any caller. Confirm who they are by calling the company they work for using number from the telephone directory or a bill.

Ask a neighbour to come around to check them before you open the door.

Tell them to come back at a time when someone will be at home with you.

Keep doors and windows locked and use the door chain every time you answer the door.

Call the police immediately if you feel intimidated, they are suspicious or won’t go away when asked to.

Residents can also contact Citizen’s Advice Consumer Advice Service on 08454 04 0506 for any issues relating to buying goods and consumer rights.